For years, Bali has been the dream destination not just for travellers but digital nomads too. Sunshine every day, beaches filled with surfers, a great culture, a friendly community, and a lifestyle that felt more relaxed and enjoyable than big-city life.
But today, in 2025, a lot has changed around the world. Travel rules have shifted, living costs have gone up in many countries, and just like everywhere else, Bali is “not the same” as it used to be. So what does that mean for digital nomad families? Are they still packing up their laptops and moving to this island paradise?
In the past few years, Bali has grown even more popular. However, this popularity came with some downsides. The cost of living, especially in popular areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak, has increased significantly.
Rent for family-sized villas has doubled in some places. Restaurants, groceries, and everyday services are no longer as cheap as they once were, and even simple leisure activities like a weekend trip around the island can now feel pricey.
Tourism and expat demand have also contributed to crowded streets and a faster pace of life. Education and childcare costs have risen, with international schools, private nurseries, and after-school programs, which many digital nomad families rely on, being more expensive now.
While the island is still charming, staying long-term now requires careful planning, and many families need to work harder to afford a good lifestyle.
Despite the rising costs, Bali still attracts digital nomad families. Many are drawn by the lifestyle. The chance to live near nature, to explore new cultures, and to give their children better exposure and experiences beyond what is at home.
Some families also use Bali as a base for travelling around Southeast Asia, taking advantage of the proximity to countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Here are more reasons digital nomad families are still living in Bali:
Many digital nomad families stay in Bali because it gives them a sense of freedom. Freedom to live differently, work from anywhere, raise their children in a unique environment, and enjoy life without the strict routines they had back home. Even with rising costs, that feeling is hard to give up.
Many families find it easier to enjoy both work and family time in Bali because the overall lifestyle is softer and less demanding. Parents don’t feel the same pressure or fast pace they had in big cities. The days feel lighter, the environment is calm, and it’s easier to switch off after work. This helps families spend more time together, enjoy simple activities, and keep stress levels low.
Bali has a large community of digital nomads, expats, and travelling families, which makes it easy to meet people and build connections. It is easy to make friends quickly, so no one feels isolated. This gives families a sense of belonging and is a big reason many choose to stay.
While life in Bali may be more expensive and a little busier than before, many digital nomad families are still living there in 2025. Even with the changes, the island still offers a warm community, a healthy lifestyle, and the chance to live life differently. Families who value nature, culture, freedom, and a slower pace of life continue to see it as a great place to raise their children while working remotely.
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